Students participate in the 2024 WNY College Consortium in the Old Gym of Jamestown High School, made possible by the JHS College & Career Center.

At Jamestown High School, supporting students’ college and career aspirations is about more than just guidance – it’s about building relationships and understanding individual paths.

JHS career development liaisons Michelle Hoaglund and Carmen Perez are dedicated to helping students think about what lies beyond crossing the stage at Chautauqua Institution at Commencement. Each is instrumental in providing experiential learning opportunities for students to learn more about their hopes and dreams.

“Oftentimes, I have the chance to sit in with a student who is meeting with their dream college and nothing is better than seeing the lightbulb go off — the lightbulb being them realize that there’s a path forward for them to pursue their dream,” said Hoaglund, who primarily works as a conduit between JHS counselors and their students. “I love being able to help bring exposure to what’s out there for students and help them learn how they can afford it.”

“At JHS I support students by getting to know them,” noted Perez, who primarily helps students and families navigate the school setting. “I want to know their hopes and dreams, what inspires them and drives them to want to succeed. Understanding some of the barriers they face helps me plan visits according to their interests and helps me support them to the best of my ability.”

Field trips to colleges and employers play a crucial role in opening doors to new possibilities. These experiences allow students to explore a variety of career paths, some they may not have even considered.

So far this school year, the JHS College & Career Center has coordinated a visit to the high school by the WNY College Consortium, allowing students to engage with nearly 30 colleges from across the region. Students in Gennaro Mannochio’s Health/Career class and Amy Siderits’ Anatomy & Physiology class also had the chance to visit Jamestown Community College to learn about careers in healthcare, coordinated by the center.

Students are also given the opportunity to learn more about workforce opportunities available after graduation. Hoaglund routinely works with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and other trade organizations to help recruit interested students. Students also had the chance to attend WNY Construction Career Days in early October, hosted by and at the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 17’s training facility in Lakeview.

“This is not only valuable information to students but to their families as well,” Perez said. “I see these trips as a way for information to spread to individuals that may not know what is out there.”

Students will also have the chance to attend college visits to SUNY Fredonia, St. Bonaventure University, and others.

Hoaglund also helps students navigate the college and scholarship application process, working with them on organizing their applications, essays, references.

“There is so much money available throughout our community to students,” Hoaglund said. “We are always here to help them through what sometimes can be a cumbersome process.”

Students are encouraged to seek help whenever they need it. Whether navigating college applications or exploring career options, JHS is committed to being a source of support, helping students turn their dreams into achievable goals. For those with questions or concerns, the message is simple: don’t hesitate to reach out.

“They have the power to shape their future,” Perez said of the students. “Everyone’s story is different and things may get hard at times, but never give up.”